Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.
Computer and Information Research Scientists
SOC: 15-1221 O*NET: 15-1221.00
Median Salary
$140,910
per year
Job Growth
🚀 19.7%
Much Faster (2024-2034)
Annual Openings
3.2
projected jobs/year
Education Level
Bachelor's degree plus work experience, or graduate degree
Job Zone 5
Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.
Overview
Compensation & Benefits
Salary Distribution by Percentile
Understanding where you might fall in the salary range based on experience and location.
10th
$84,546
25th
$112,728
50th (Median)
$140,910
75th
$169,092
90th
$211,365
Percentile Explained: If you're in the 75th percentile, you earn more than 75% of workers in this occupation. Entry-level positions typically fall in the 10th-25th percentile range, while experienced professionals often reach the 75th-90th percentile.
Typical Benefits Package
Health & Wellness
- ✓Health Insurance
- ✓Dental Insurance
- ✓Vision Insurance
- ✓Mental Health Support
- ✓Wellness Programs
Financial Benefits
- ✓401(k) Retirement Plan
- ✓Employer Match (typically 3-6%)
- ✓Profit Sharing
- ✓Stock Options
- ✓Performance Bonuses
Work-Life Balance
- ✓Paid Time Off (15-25 days)
- ✓Paid Sick Leave
- ✓Flexible Work Arrangements
- ✓Remote Work Options
- ✓Parental Leave
Professional Development
- ✓Tuition Reimbursement
- ✓Professional Certifications
- ✓Conference Attendance
- ✓Training Programs
- ✓Mentorship Opportunities
Note: Benefits vary widely by employer, company size, and location. Large corporations and tech companies often offer more comprehensive packages, while small businesses may offer fewer benefits but more flexibility. Always review the complete compensation package, not just base salary.
Job Market Intelligence
Job Market Intelligence
Very High Demand
Market demand
Medium Risk
Automation risk
Current Employment
National Employment:40,300
10-Year Outlook
Growth Rate:+19.7%
Annual Openings:3,200
Employment Projections
2024 (Current)40,300
Current
2034 (Projected)48,300
+19.7%
+7,900
Employment Change
+19.7%
Growth Rate
10
Year Projection
Growth Category: Much faster than average
Key Growth Factors
- •Much faster than average growth expected
- •High current market demand
Top Skills
✓
Judgment and Decision Making
Judgment and Decision Making
✓
Complex Problem Solving
Complex Problem Solving
✓
Critical Thinking
Critical Thinking
✓
Systems Analysis
Systems Analysis
✓
Active Listening
Active Listening
✓
Reading Comprehension
Reading Comprehension
✓
Systems Evaluation
Systems Evaluation
✓
Programming
Programming
✓
Active Learning
Active Learning
✓
Speaking
Speaking
Key Knowledge Areas
✓
Computers and Electronics
✓
Mathematics
✓
Engineering and Technology
✓
English Language
✓
Administration and Management
✓
Design
✓
Telecommunications
Education & Training
Education Required
Bachelor's degree plus work experience, or graduate degree
Experience Required
Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience needed
Job Training
Extensive training and work experience required